Conversations with Duffy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Duffy

Hi Duffy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I moved to Missouri from San Diego, CA in August of 2015 to go back to school and play basketball at the University of Central Missouri. In June of 2019, I moved to Kansas City and started working for Cerner (now Oracle) full-time while also working part-time for Apple. I have always had a creative streak in me but I never had the chance to explore it growing up due to being a competitive athlete. During the pandemic, I had the opportunity to really tap into my creative and entrepreneurial spirit and I decided they were lanes I wanted to pursue. I decided to step away from both of my corporate roles and worked odd jobs while also networking, immersing myself in Kansas City’s creative scene and slowly building myself as a fashion stylist. During that time I worked as an event coordinator and venue coordinator and found the event industry to also be a passion of mine, which led me to where I am today. While working for Abbott Hospitality in 2023, I was given the opportunity to host and plan my very first event at The Bardot. ‘For the Love of Fashion’ was a cocktail event and fashion show that allowed me to formally introduce myself as a creative and provide a space for people in the community to share their love of fashion, connect with others and (hopefully) take a step towards pursuing their own passions.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I’m at now has not been smooth in any way, shape or form but I know I am better off for that. When I first started pursuing my passions I had no idea where or how to start but I knew I just needed to put myself out there. Breaking into the creative scene here in Kansas City was hard at times and at times felt daunting. I’ve struggled financially, I’ve lost friendships and strains have been put on relationships with family who disagree with my decisions. I’ve had really high highs and the lowest of lows and learned hard lessons along the way. I’ve been tested mentally and emotionally and I’ve struggled with self-doubt more than ever before but I know this journey was and is meant for me, otherwise it would not have presented itself to me. If it’s worth it, you’ll work hard for it and the accomplishments will taste that much sweeter.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a fashion stylist as well as an event planner & coordinater. I would say I’m known for specializing in thrifted and upcycled fashion, which is something I’m also proud of. I enjoy having fun with fashion and inspiring others to get creative and venture outside their comfort zones. I believe what sets me apart from others is my strong desire to be unique and authentic, stay true to myself and always put my own twist on anything I have a hand in.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice is to network if and when you’re actually open to it and willing to receive what might come your way. So many times I’ve heard people talk about wanting to network and make new connections but they don’t back it up with their actions. There are times where you have to be willing to make the first move as opposed to waiting for things to come to you. What’s worked for me is opening myself up to new connections no matter where I am or what I’m doing. I’ve met people in coffee shops, at events, restaurants, etc. I love surrounding myself with people I can learn from who are further along than me. Stay Curious! If there is someone you admire or look up to, whether they’re in the same industry as you or not, approach them, ask them questions. Don’t be afraid and always remember that feeling a little intimidated isn’t always a bad thing.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mizzzzduffy/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/events.by.duffy/